The Moon

The moon is about 238,900 miles away from earth and shooting for the moon is another way of saying, “I’m aiming toward a goal that is way beyond my immediate reach.” Other ways of saying the same thing include, “Nothing ventured, nothing gained,” or “To live without risk is to risk not living.” 

Not everyone is inclined to shoot for the moon, take a risk or venture toward something that seems a bit out of this world. But, I do. 

I’ve often wondered if this tendency of mine is in my DNA or simply because of the way I was raised. Either way, nurture or nature, like my flat feet, I’ve accepted this part of myself. But I shoot cautiously and carefully, not wildly, aiming to improve the odds of hitting my target and not just any ol thing. 

Most recently, my focused target is promoting my book. I do not like “tooting my own horn,” but no one, unless I pay them big bucks, will peddle my book for me. Consequently, someone suggested leaving my book in various places throughout the community; a waiting room in a doctor’s office, in a church foyer or laundromat. My mind ruminated on the idea and settled on something a little different; Little Free Libraries. 

Little Free Libraries have sprung up all over the place, not just in my little town, but across the nation. The first one was built in 2009 in Wisconsin. The son of a teacher and book lover, Tod Bol, built a Little Free Library in memory of his mom. Later, it was established as a 501 (c) (3) organization.

The idea behind these little libraries is to pass books along and inspire others to read. I’ve  been gifted by a free library and know exactly how exhilarating it feels to be satisfied and pleased with getting a free book. 

A few years ago, while my husband and I were taking a road trip, we stopped for a cup of coffee at a funky little coffee shop. I’d just finished a book I’d been reading while on the road and was hungry for another. The coffee shop had a shelf of books for anyone who wanted one. I perused through the assortment of books and found The Art of Racing in the Rain, a delicious book I easily devoured. I’ve never forgotten that book and have been forever grateful for how a free book can be such a wonderful gift. 

Consequently, early one morning, I shot for the moon and peddled my book, donating some to Little Free Libraries. I can’t control who will come across my book or how it will impact someone’s life, but I can offer it as a gift.

Why Bother?

Why bother shooting for the moon? When we shoot for the moon, take a risk or venture beyond our zone of comfort we are guaranteed nothing except getting surprised.